Homosexuality in theater: present since, well, the conception of theater. Lately, though, more and more musicals are directly tackling the issues. Some are taking the issue incredibly seriously. When this is the case, the whole play usually centers on the theme of homosexuality. On the other hand, some musicals mention the possibility, have the stereotypical “gay” character or make comedy out of the situation. So, here is a not-so-exclusive list of the best homosexual plays and the best gay songs from musicals.
Serious Plays:
Rent
A year in the life of struggling Bohemian artists in the East Village, New York. The cast includes one gay couple, one straight couple, one lesbian couple, a cameraman and a landlord. Set in 1989, the biggest conflict throughout the movie is learning to trust each other as well as confronting the realities of AIDS. Taken from a view of adoration, it’s about the beauty and transience of life and learning how to cope with loss.
In short, “RENT” is amazing. The music is catchy, the characters are lovable and the productions are usually very well done. The ending, however, is amazingly hard to pull off. If it isn’t done well, the finale becomes cheesy and trite, no longer dealing with the social issues at stake.
“RENT” has developed a cult following, even transforming from an avant-garde musical to a multi-million dollar motion picture. Most agree though, that the live performances are highly superior to the film version.
Take Me Out
A musical about a major league baseball player coming out of the closet while still trying to play the game. The musical explores racism, homophobia and what it means to be “masculine” in sports. This play won numerous Tony Awards, and is considered by many to be very “moving.”
One warning for audiences: Do not attend this performance if full frontal male nudity will bother you. The entire play takes place in the locker room, and the result can be a lot more than many audience members bargained for.
Taboo
Considering its short lived run, there’s not all that much to say. “Taboo” was based on the music of Boy George and his old abandoned warehouse. It had some hilarious songs, such as “Sexual Confusion” and “Talk Amongst Yourselves.” This musical’s short run was sad, as it was nominated for multiple Tonys.
Cabaret
Life is a Cabaret, old chum, and nothing beats a classic. The Emcee is in drag, the female lead gets pregnant and somehow life is a cabaret. Sure marks of a classic. This musical is a startling mix of provocative and sad dialogue, with social commentary on conforming to traditions evident throughout the play.
| "Keep it Gay!" |
| The Producers |
| "Everyone Has AIDS" |
| Team America World Police(RENT) |
| "His Name is Lancelot" |
| Spamalot |
| "Cabaret" |
| Cabaret |
| "My Girlfriend, Who Lives in Canada" |
| Avenue Q |
| "Sexual Confusion" |
| Taboo |
| "Choreography" |
| White Christmas |
| "La Vie Boheme" |
| RENT |